What does 27 years of learning with autism look like? From learning how to simply enter the preschool building, function in a classroom setting, transition to each new grade level with its own unique challenges and academic expectations, to learning how to drive, participate in sports, choose, attend and graduate from college, deal with failure, make friends, find a job, and become independent... Time is a valuable thing. And so is perspective. This book cleverly combines both, by offering a wealth of practical information, presented as a case study narrative of one individual with autism, giving the uniquely broad perspective of toddler years, early development and diagnosis, preschool, thirteen years of public school, five years of college, employment and finally independence - all in one complete account - focusing on the most relevant academic, language and daily practical learning challenges at each stage relating to autistic thinking and behaviors unique to individuals with autism. Although compiled and written by a parent, Julie Conner purposefully goes beyond her own personal notes and observations, to include participating psychologists, special educators, speech therapists, teachers and aide's comments and feedback, evaluations and reports, as well as, their effective strategies, plans and results. The detailed examples along the way of aha moments and unique insights, help to reveal how autistic thinking can affect even the smallest of actions and reactions. Professionals and parents alike will gain a deeper understanding and perspective of autistic thinking, given the ability to view 27 years of one individual's progress. Not only does it show the natural evolution of learning and maturing with autism, but more importantly, it gives a hopeful picture of what tomorrow can look like - because it's never too late to learn.
